Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I do not doubt the Minister of State's commitment or the Minister's, but businesses need help now. The cold, hard facts are this money was announced in the budget six months ago and it only opened for applications in the past number of weeks. Businesses are suffering now. They need help now and they need a dedicated focus on how they can be supported. The number of businesses closing weekly is phenomenal. We need the supports now and we need priority given to this now.

I welcome the commitment given on PRSI changes to recognise the increase in the minimum wage but we also need to look at other measures. I gave the example that the measures introduced over the last 18 months are cumulatively costing a fabulous business in Mullingar, County Westmeath, Wholesome Kitchen, €155,000 a year. The grant the owner will get is €3,500. There is an imbalance there. I accept the commitment given today that additional supports will be forthcoming. PRSI changes are needed as soon as possible. Among other things, we also need to look at splitting the VAT rates for food and accommodation and at lowering the rate.

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